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Hundreds of prisoners who escaped during a recent uprising in Bangladesh are still at large, highlighting ongoing security challenges within the country's correctional facilities. Inspector General of Prisons Syed Muhammad Motahar Hussain stated that 690 inmates remain unaccounted for following the July events.

Compounding the issue, prison records, including vital server and database information, were destroyed during attacks and arson. This damage has made it impossible to confirm the identities of 166 escapees from the Narsingdi jail alone. The situation is particularly concerning as nine of the escapees were implicated in militancy cases, with three still at large.

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If anyone becomes involved in drug-related offences, we take extremely strict action against them.

In response to broader concerns about contraband and corruption, the prison authorities maintain a strict "zero tolerance" policy. Motahar Hussain acknowledged that while efforts are made to prevent illicit activities, ensuring no inmate uses a mobile phone is not a "100 percent guarantee." However, he noted that over 3,000 mobile phones have been confiscated in the past year, indicating a continuous effort to curb such practices.

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However, we are not giving anyone any concession in this regard. More than 3,000 mobile phones have been seized over the past year. The number is gradually coming down.